{"id":43268,"date":"2023-09-05T13:19:23","date_gmt":"2023-09-05T13:19:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/histarmar.net\/?p=43268"},"modified":"2023-09-05T13:19:23","modified_gmt":"2023-09-05T13:19:23","slug":"youre-using-your-fan-all-wrong-six-dangerous-common-mistakes-to-avoid-during-the-heatwave-the-sun","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/histarmar.net\/world-news\/youre-using-your-fan-all-wrong-six-dangerous-common-mistakes-to-avoid-during-the-heatwave-the-sun\/","title":{"rendered":"You\u2019re using your fan all WRONG \u2013 six dangerous common mistakes to avoid during the heatwave | The Sun"},"content":{"rendered":"

BRITS are digging out their fans once again as an unexpected September heatwave.<\/p>\n

But before you rush to switch it on for an instant cool off, make sure it's set up right to avoid hidden dangers.<\/p>\n

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In extreme cases, it could even result in a devastating fire.<\/p>\n

Here are six common mistakes identified by safety charity Electrical Safety First.<\/p>\n

1. Is it OK to leave my fan on overnight?<\/h2>\n

You might be tempted to leave your fan on overnight to get around some uncomfortable temperatures.<\/p>\n

But Electrical Safety First's expert Giuseppe Capanna warns people not to.<\/p>\n

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You'll have no idea if there's an electrical fault as you sleep which could cause a fire.<\/p>\n

Of course, most modern electric fans are safe to leave on for hours at a time and pose little to no threat.<\/p>\n

Some also have timers – so maybe you could set it to go for a couple of hours then switch off automatically later?<\/p>\n

If you do choose to leave it on overnight, make sure the device is clear of dust and is far away from curtains.<\/p>\n

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However, those who are at risk of severe heat stroke or other adverse health effects, it's almost certainly worth leaving the fan on.<\/p>\n

2. Where should I buy a new fan?<\/h2>\n

It's tempting to buy a second hand fan from sites like Facebook Marketplace to save a bit of cash.<\/p>\n

But experts say it's best not to.<\/p>\n

That's because it won't have the same safety testing as it would from a reputable retailer.<\/p>\n

Substandard imitations and old kit could risk electric shock and fire.<\/p>\n

3. Where should I put my fan?<\/h2>\n

Your fan should always be kept on a flat surface.<\/p>\n

If it's balanced precariously on the edge of something, such as a dresser or bedside table, it could very easily fall off.<\/p>\n

As a result, the blades may well hit the guard and put the motor under additional strain, thereby leading to overheating and even a fire.<\/p>\n

On top of that, it could break your fan altogether as well.<\/p>\n

4. What should I do about dusty fans?<\/h2>\n

Over the years, your fan's vents and motor can become quite clogged up with dust buildup.<\/p>\n

This is especially the case if you've just dug it out from a closet for the heatwave.<\/p>\n

Dust puts the motor under extra strain, increasing the risk of overheat and catch fire.<\/p>\n

The dust itself can also act as a source of ignition if the motor were to overheat.<\/p>\n

So make sure you regularly give it a clean.<\/p>\n

Before cleaning the fan blades or motor, unplug the device and follow the manufacturer's instructions in the manual.<\/p>\n

5. My fan is making a buzzing sound – should I be worried?<\/h2>\n

If your fan is giving off a faint buzzing sound it may be a sign of an electrical fault or \u2018arcing\u2019 occurring at the plug.<\/p>\n

Always ensure your fan is plugged in securely and if you notice any smell of burning or unusual noises, turn it off immediately.<\/p>\n

6. Check your fan for wear and tear<\/h2>\n

We often keep hold of fans for years, packing them away in the cooler months, where damage may occur to cables.<\/p>\n

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It's important to check that the cables and vents are in good condition.<\/p>\n

Damage to those parts can hinder the product's performance.<\/p>\n

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